Suzuki & GM - New bike consideration

[techgesture]

I've never "driven" a motorcycle before... I just signed up for the Riders Course coming June 15th here in Charlotte... so I'm very excited... and of course, now I'm looking around at what Bike I will want for my first bike.

Conflicted about the whole US Bike vs. Jap Bike... I did come across an interesting fact.

I'm a GM fan, drive a GMC and a Pontiac, own stock in GM... a fan!
I was on the GM website at www.gm.com... and I noticed something... in the navigation menu on the top right, all the way at the bottom there is a link under "GM Network" that says Suzuki.
Now that caught my attention!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There's nothing anywhere that describes thier relationship... I imagine that it's purely automotive. But... I'm thinking to myself.... if Suzuki is successful, then it helps the relationship, and helps GM... thus... if I buy a Suzuki... then Im still contribution to US.

After coming to terms with considering a Suzuki... I notice the M50... and just, wow. After lots of research... most of which on this forum... I've now fallen in love with the M50 and cant wait to buy one!


Anyone know anything about that relationship between GM and Suzuki... ?

[Louis]

The automobile part of Suzuki is under GM. Not sure if that applies to the motorcycle division though.

[automogul]

I'm an auto junky, so I'll chime in. The bikes are in their own little world. What's more, GM recently sold off most of its stake in Suzuki. There are still some current Auto models that are on the Daewoo platforms (also GM). Yet, Suzuiki is looking to break out on their own and become a stand alone company. They are planning to make all of their own chassis and engine combos in the coming years.

I'll hold off on personal thoughts and opinions of all of it. You weren't looking for that anyways.

My wife has an M50, and I have a C50. They're fantastic bikes and you won't find a better value. They're the best blend of features and price.

[hammersfan]

In Canada at least GM employees get a discount on Suzuki bikes

[MagnumForce]

How does one describe the relationship Suzuki has with GM, you ask? Perhaps it's romantic. Maybe it's passionate. It can't be denied, however, that it's purely platonic.

Hahahaha, just kidding, of course!

I used to own a 2001 Chevy Metro several years ago, and under the hood are Suzuki logos and labels. GM does own a 3% stake in Suzuki, but I can't be certain if it's only the auto division or Suzuki as a whole. The following Wikipedia articles expand on the GM/Suzuki relationship:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Motors
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzuki

Regardless of the aforementioned relationship, the M50 is truly one of the best bangs for the buck out there. It's stylish, affordable, and the shaft drive and FI are definitely a must have.

[techgesture]

Very Interesting indeed.


On shopping for a bike...

If I were to buy any bike I wanted, I would buy the Harley Davidson VROD. Beautiful Bike... but I'm not throwing down 18 - 20K on my first bike... no way.

Put the M50 and the VROD side by side, I must say, the styling cues are very simular.

I agree after shopping around, Im glad I came across the M50 (even through through a link on GM website)... it does seem to be the best value for the dollar.

I'm VERY EXCITED.

Now I just have to shop around and see what kind of deal I can get on one.

[Pinhy]

M50 was my first bike (well, except for the $800 1981 GS650 i rode for a couple months till the M came out)....and it has been the perfect blend of style, price, handling, power and overall ease of use for my lack of riding experience.

you will not regret going with the M!

welcome to M-J.com!

.

[automogul]

Good Luck with the Course Tech! Welcome to the boards. I hope another M finds a happy home.

[SNAFU]

My First Bike ever. It's a Great Bike and lurking on the Forum and reading from what the M owners were saying about this Bike had me convinced.